Don't Get Burned: How to Safely and Effectively Shield Your Skin from the Sun's Harmful Rays

The Thai Metereological Center has warned about a spike in the UV Index in Thailand over the next week. Across the country, it is estimated that the UV index will range between 11 - 13 at about noon with clear skies.

What is the UV Index?

The UV (ultraviolet) Index is a measure of the strength of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. It is a standardized scale that was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to indicate the level of UV radiation at a given place and time. The UV Index is designed to help people protect themselves from the harmful effects of overexposure to UV radiation, such as sunburn, skin damage, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

The UV Index ranges from 0 to 11+, with higher values indicating a greater risk of UV exposure. A UV Index of 0-2 is considered low, 3-5 is moderate, 6-7 is high, 8-10 is very high, and 11+ is extreme. The index takes into account factors such as the time of day, the season, the altitude, and the amount of cloud cover, all of which can affect the strength of UV radiation.

It is important to note that the UV Index is not a temperature or a measure of how hot it feels outside. It is a measure of the strength of UV radiation, which can be high even on cool or cloudy days. It is important to check the UV Index before spending time outdoors and to take appropriate precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak UV hours.

Sun safety for Outdoor Pickleball

Pickleball is a fun and active outdoor sport, but it's important to take steps to protect your skin from the harmful UV rays while playing. Here are some ways to protect your skin from UV rays while playing pickleball outdoors:

1. Wear protective clothing: Choose lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs. Look for clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher, which indicates that it provides adequate sun protection.
2. Wear a hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun. Opt for a hat with a brim that's at least three inches wide for maximum protection.
3. Apply sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to any exposed skin, including your face, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you're sweating or swimming.
4. Seek shade: If possible, play pickleball in shaded areas or take frequent breaks in the shade.
5. Wear sunglasses: Sunglasses with 100% UV protection can help protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays and reduce your risk of eye damage.

Remember to take these steps to protect your skin from UV rays not only while playing pickleball but also anytime you spend time outdoors.